The terrain
Open the site and you can be in a game within seconds, from one-minute bullet to days-long correspondence. Puzzles, studies, an opening explorer, analysis with a strong engine and lessons for beginners all sit one click away, and every feature is free for everyone.
A typical walk
A rapid game takes twenty minutes; a puzzle streak takes five. The pairing system finds an opponent near your level quickly at almost any hour. Fast time controls can be addictive, so the site lets you hide ratings and set reminders if you want a calmer pace.
Tolls and fair trade
There is nothing to buy. Lichess runs on donations and a voluntary supporter badge that changes nothing about play. No ads, no tracking for advertising, and the code is open for anyone to read.
Good going
- Every feature free, no ads
- Huge range of time controls and puzzles
- Excellent learning tools
Rough going
- Bullet chess can eat an evening
- Busy menus for first-timers
Surveyor's note
For anyone who has ever enjoyed chess, from total beginners to club players. It is hard to find a reason not to recommend it.
Surveyed for Edition C · Autumn 2026. Browser games update often; we resurvey when something important changes.
